Drunk Driving Accidents (OVI / DUI)

Despite the increase in criminal penalties under Ohio law, drunk driving accidents continue to be a significant problem and result in serious injuries. Recent data from the Ohio State Highway patrol shows that in 2013, over 19,000 arrests for OVI were made. Additionally, over 30% of total driving fatalities involved alcohol impaired drivers. Based on our experience in handling drunk driving cases, the Brannon Law Firm understands the horrible impact that drunk driving accidents can have on victims and their families. Ohio law provides injured victims with the right to recover monetary compensation from a drunk driver that injured them.

There are special considerations and laws that must be taken into account when representing drunk driving victims. These cases are different from regular car accidents, because a drunk driver consciously makes a decision to endanger other drivers and pedestrians by operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Willful and wanton misconduct like this usually permits the victim to recover punitive damages from a drunk driver. This is in addition to compensation for loss of life, past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, lost earning capacity, loss of consortium, property damage, permanent disability, and even death.

It is important to act quickly after being injured by a drunken driver so that important evidence can be gathered and preserved. Criminal defense attorneys and insurance companies will often take steps to conceal or minimize a drunk driver’s level of intoxication. At the Brannon Law Firm, we have represented hundreds of drunk driving victims and are experienced in dealing with the issues that are unique to intoxicated drivers. Our law firm also has the resources and works with leading medical experts, accident re-constructionists and all other persons essential to winning your case. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, call our offices for a free consultation to see how we can help.